Jim Barne and Kit Buchan’s new musical is being carried from The Kiln to The Criterion Theatre for a deserving West End run and it’s clear to see why.

This beautiful two-hander is simply outstanding. It’s a rom-com style production with catchy tunes, clever wordplay and lyrics plus a genuinely touching and captivating story.

The title may not roll off the tongue but it cunningly tells you everything you need to know. Dougal arrives in New York from England for his dad’s wedding, even though the two have never met. Sister of the bride Robin is sent to meet Dougal and the two strangers are thrown together for a whirlwind 36 hours, evidently carrying the wedding cake for some of the time. What follows is an utterly charming tale of joy, turmoil, friendship and hope which has the audience fully engrossed throughout.

Dougal is played exquisitely by Olivier Award winner Sam Tutty and you can instantly tell he’s a real talent. Tutty shines with a tour de force of a performance exuding every inch of comedy from the brilliant writing. His characterisation is so natural and warm that you can’t help be charmed by his every word.

Dujonna Gift plays Robin and she is equally superb, especially in the second act when the character becomes fully rounded. Her cynical honesty is pitched perfectly and her powerful voice astounds throughout. Both Tutty and Gift’s effortless vocals are beyond flawless and the two of them together seem the ideal match.

Tim Jackson’s fresh and lively direction is simple but entirely effective, focusing on comedy first but never deviating from truth. Soutra Gilmour’s ingenious set design of stacked suitcases looks straightforward but transforms expertly into many locations including hotel rooms and coffee shops.

However, writers Jim Barne and Kit Buchan must take most of the glory. Their hilarious script is packed full of smart one-liners and the songs are impeccably written, each one bringing its own catchy melody or astute rhyming lyrics.

This quirky treat of a musical is genuinely funny and engaging with two loveable characters at its heart, even sweeter than the wedding cake they’re carrying.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️